Whether you’re a product of the ’80s or have come to appreciate its vibrant music scene through the lens of nostalgia, chances are there are a few iconic artists from this era you’ve never had the chance to see live. Some have hung up their microphones for good, while others have passed on the mantle to a new generation of musicians. Unfortunately, this means your beloved ’80s stars might not be performing anymore.
However, there’s good news! A plethora of legendary artists from the ’80s are still hitting the road, captivating audiences with timeless classics and newer material alike. While some may not sound exactly as they did in their youth, the thrill of experiencing your favorite music live is worth the adventure. If any of the artists mentioned in this guide align with your tastes, seize the opportunity to secure your concert tickets today.
10 Rick Springfield
I Want My ’80s Tour Featuring John Waite, Paul Young, Wang Chung, & John Cafferty
Rick Springfield, a quintessential ’80s icon, shows no signs of slowing down. Known for his consistent touring schedule and remarkable vocal performances, he remains a must-see live act. His encore rendition of “Jessie’s Girl,” famously highlighting his affinity for engaging the crowd, is something fans eagerly anticipate.
This summer, Springfield will embark on the I Want My ’80s Tour alongside fellow legends John Waite, Paul Young, John Cafferty, and Wang Chung. The tour kicks off on May 28 in Clearwater, FL, wrapping up on August 10 in Henderson, NV. Sponsored by SiriusXM’s ’80s on 8 and Bear Bar Rum, it features stops in cities including Newark, NJ, Los Angeles, CA, and Englewood, CO.
For tickets and further information, visit Rick Springfield’s official website. Keep in mind that special guests vary per show, so check specific dates to catch your preferred performer.
9 Bryan Adams
Roll With The Punches Tour
Much like Springfield, Bryan Adams is another formidable name in the ’80s music landscape. With beloved hits like “Summer of ’69″and “Heaven,”his stage presence continues to resonate with fans of all ages. Adams’ passion for performing remains as strong as ever, positioning him as a bucket-list artist for many music enthusiasts.
Currently on the Roll With The Punches Tour, Adams began his journey in Reykjavík, Iceland on April 21 and will finish in Tallinn, Estonia on August 14. Named after his 16th studio album, this tour showcases his endurance and devotion to music. If you missed him in North America this year, don’t worry – he’ll likely return in 2024.
Visit Bryan Adams’ official website for more details about upcoming dates and ticket availability.
8 Def Leppard
Festivals, Arenas, & One-Off Shows
Def Leppard, a powerhouse English rock band, shows no signs of fading from the music scene. They continue to thrill fans with electric performances that highlight their influence across various genres, including heavy metal and glam rock. Their live sound remains as powerful as it was nearly five decades ago.
This year, while not on an official tour, they are scheduled to perform at several music festivals, state fairs, and special one-off shows, running from May 15 to August 31. Events include Ottawa Bluesfest and Boardwalk Rock 2025 in Ocean City, MD. If you have the chance, this summer is the perfect opportunity to experience their music live.
For updates and ticket purchases, please refer to Def Leppard’s official website.
7 Duran Duran
European Tour
Duran Duran is another legendary English band celebrated for their pop rock sound. Their concerts consistently receive rave reviews from fans. If you’ll be in Europe this summer, their shows promise an unforgettable musical experience.
From June 3 to July 9, Duran Duran will be performing in various European countries including Denmark, Italy, Germany, and Spain. If you’ve been contemplating that dream summer vacation, consider adding one of their concert dates to your itinerary!
Find tickets and further information on Duran Duran’s official website.
6 Benatar Giraldo
North American Tour
Pat Benatar continues to tour, often alongside her husband Neil Giraldo. This couple has made summer tours a tradition over the years, recently celebrating their 38th wedding anniversary. Their mutual passion for music and performance is evident in every show.
Benatar’s North American tour kicks off on April 11 in Palm Springs, CA, concluding on September 11 in Louisville, KY. The tour includes stops in cities such as Albany, NY, Niagara Falls, ON, and Tulsa, OK. This makes it easy for fans nationwide to attend a concert!
Visit Benatar Giraldo’s official website for ticket details and a full list of tour dates.
5 Simple Minds
Alive & Kicking Tour with Soft Cell & Modern English
For those craving a dynamic tour featuring some of the UK’s finest musical talents, look no further than Simple Minds’ Alive & Kicking Tour. They’re joined by Soft Cell and Modern English, making it a must-see for anyone who appreciates 80s hits. This tour commemorates forty years since the release of Simple Minds’ acclaimed album Once Upon a Time.
The tour kicks off on May 16 in Ridgefield, WA, concluding with their final show on June 22 in Noblesville, IN. Cities on their extensive route include Denver, CO, and Chula Vista, CA, providing ample opportunities for fans to experience these incredible performances.
Tickets and more information are available on Simple Minds’ official website.
4 Billy Idol
It’s A Nice Day To… Tour Again!
Billy Idol, known for hits like “Rebel Yell”and “White Wedding,”continues to thrive on stage. His enduring appeal allows him to attract both long-time fans and newcomers alike. His upcoming It’s A Nice Day To… Tour Again! will cover areas across North America and Europe this year.
Joining him on this tour is Joan Jett & the Blackhearts, making this collaboration even more enticing. The tour kicks off on April 30 in Phoenix, AZ, ending on September 25 in Inglewood, CA with stops in cities such as Copenhagen and Munich. Notably, $5 from every ticket sold for the final show will be donated to the American Red Cross to aid Southern California wildfire relief.
Check out Idol’s official website for additional tour details and ticket information.
3 Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark (OMD)
North American Tour
While they might not be top-of-mind when recalling iconic ’80s acts, OMD deserves recognition. Their hits like “Enola Gay”and “If You Leave”remain classics that defined an era. The English electronic band is ready to prove they still deliver stellar performances.
Kicking off their North American tour this spring, OMD will start at Cruel World in Pasadena, CA, before heading to cities such as Chicago, IL, and Boston, MA, concluding on July 8 at New York City’s Terminal 5.
For more information and tickets, visit OMD’s official website.
2 The Cure
Unannounced World Tour
Fans of The Cure have reason to be hopeful. Following the release of their 14th studio album, Songs of a Lost World, and with the band’s 50th anniversary approaching in 2026, there are whispers of potential tours and new material on the horizon.
In a recent NME interview, frontman Robert Smith hinted that they have another album nearly completed and a third one on the way. He expressed a desire to finish those albums before hitting the stage again. Keep a lookout for announcements regarding future performances later this year.
“We’ll start up again next year. Seriously, I have to finish the second album. We were going to play festivals next year, but then I decided that we weren’t going to play anything next summer. The next time we go out on stage will be autumn next year.”- Robert Smith
For the latest tour updates, sign up at The Cure’s official website.
1 The 80s Cruise
The Ultimate 80s Party 10-Year Anniversary
Last but not least, while not a traditional concert, The 80s Cruise celebrates its 10th anniversary this year. A unique blend of ’80s music and a cruise experience, this annual event is a favorite among enthusiasts who appreciate the era. The next cruise event will occur in March, but for those who like to plan ahead, the 2026 cruise is scheduled for February 27 to March 6, offering a fully inclusive event packed with entertainment and relaxation opportunities.
The lineup for next year features Bret Michaels, Billy Ocean, Taylor Dayne, and Glass Tiger, among others. Hosted by MTV veterans Mark Goodman, Alan Hunter, and Downtown Julie Brown, attendees can expect a vibrant atmosphere. The cruise will sail from Port Canaveral, making stops in Nassau, Falmouth, and Labadee.